Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska holds a number of fundraising events throughout each year, some of which have been attended by our bishop.
When delivering comments at some of these events, I have heard Bishop Bruskewitz (before his retirement) and now Bishop Conley ask these questions, “What differentiates Catholic Social Services from any other social service agency? What makes what they do any different from what other social services agencies do?”
The answer, of course, is that we do what we do for Jesus Christ. This is outlined in Matthew’s gospel, 25:31-46, the description of the final judgment by Jesus Christ, Who said, “Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these, my brethren, you did it to me.”
Last year a young man, one of God’s sons, created in His image and likeness, started coming to CSS for help. Since he was homeless, he came to us mainly for food, clothing and sleeping bags. He was on the streets because of his alcoholism. Almost every time I saw him, he was under the influence. And nearly every time we gave him something, he would point to the heavens and say, “Thank you, Jesus!”
I cannot tell you how many sleeping bags we gave him this winter, for they were all lost or stolen. Recently, we received word that he died on the streets. I am privileged to have offered a memorial Mass for the happy repose of his soul. I pray that he is in the bosom of Abraham and know he will never again need a sleeping bag.
In preparation for receiving the sacrament of Confirmation, the fifth- and sixth-graders at St. Patrick School in McCook held a sleeping bag drive for Catholic Social Services, for the homeless.
Tama Kain, their religion teacher, explained that teaching students about the spiritual and corporal works of mercy is one thing, but having them practice them is another, for it is projects like these they will remember. It is not hard to see the light of Christ in their eyes.
I would like to thank them, their religion teacher Tama, and all of the staff and administrators of St. Patrick School (including Father Gary Brethour).
May all of you and all of our supporters across the diocese and beyond have a blessed and holy 2017!
